Egypt's army-backed government resigns: By Paige Kutschall

"(CNN) -- Egypt's army-backed government resigned Monday, state-run Nile TV said, adding uncertainty to the nation's three years of upheaval.

The government headed by Prime Minister Hazem Beblawi turned in its resignation to President Adly Mansour, the station said.

Beblawi said the government would continue to serve until the resignation was accepted, Nile TV reported. When that would happen wasn't immediately clear.

The resignations by Beblawi and his Cabinet come as disorganized strikes ripple through the work force. In recent weeks, doctors, low-ranking police officers, postal workers, transport workers and textile workers have all gone on strike for short periods of time.

 Russia negotiating arms deal with Egypt

Analysts expect army chief Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, who served as defense minister, to run for president. The military has denied such speculation.

If he does run, El-Sisi would need to give up his post.

But with no clear contender, his chances of winning the presidency are high.

If elected, he will become the sixth military leader to rule Egypt since its independence.

Elections are expected to be announced in April.

Army denies military chief Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi said he will run for president

Egypt's government has been unsettled since a popular revolt toppled the 29-year rule of former strongman Hosni Mubarak in 2011.

Mohamed Morsy, the former head of the Muslim Brotherhood's political arm, was elected president in 2012. Shortly after he winning, he resigned from the Muslim Brotherhood and its Freedom and Justice Party in an effort to show that he would represent all Egyptians.

But he was ousted in a coup about a year later amid widespread protests against his rule, with opponents accusing him of pursuing an Islamist agenda and excluding other factions from the government.

Morsy and other Brotherhood leaders were rounded up after the coup and now face a variety of counts, including organizing attacks on Egyptian troops in the Sinai Peninsula and fueling "sectarian sedition with the aim of igniting civil war in Egypt."

Supporters say the military-backed government that replaced Morsy has returned to the authoritarian practices of Mubarak."

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/24/world/africa/egypt-politics/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

aid resolution by: Shadden Hashem

               The UN Security Council passed a resolution to boost access for humanitarian aid hoping to ease the suffering of their people. All of the 15 Security Council member states approved the resolution. "But these steps are only first steps. The test is whether the words of the Security Council are matched with the life-saving actions the Syrian people so desperately and urgently need," said Kerry.

               This is awesome. I'm glad they have come to a resolution for this problem.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/22/world/meast/syria-un-aid-resolution/index.html

daredevils climb skyscraper...JULIA WOLTJEN

SUMMARY: Recently 2 daredevils climbed a Shanghai skyscraper with GoPro cameras so the whole thing was caught on tape.

ANALYSIS: First of all, they are crazy. I mean they had no supports and were doing it all while it was foggy so they couldn't even see very well. Probably just trying to get attention. Maybe a security guard might do some good,  just a thought.

http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/world/2014/02/17/vo-daredevils-climb-shanghai-skyscraper.cnn.html

bad chocolate....JULIA WOLTJEN

SUMMARY: On the ivory coast there are many cocoa plantations (cocoa is the main ingredient to chocolate) but the people who own these plantations are some of the poorest people on Earth and are using children to farm the crop. This is also called child labor. What we don't know is that harvesting cocoa is a very dangerous and difficult task and some of the children that are working are 6 years old or younger.

ANALYSIS: This is a terrible and harmful business. And must be stopped, the effort to stop it has been getting stronger and stronger, but the employers of the children are sneaky so it is a tough business. Always look for the fair trade symbol on chocolate, this means that no children were involved or harmed in harvesting that crop.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/13/world/africa/cocoa-nomics-does-chocolate-grow-on-trees/index.html?hpt=wo_mid

Smash! vase destroyed...JULIA WOLTJEN

SUMMARY: A local Miami artist is under arrest for destroying $1 million vase in a museum. The artist says that he didn't know it's worth when he destroyed but, that doesn't justify anything. He says the act was one of protest against the museum for only housing international art. He probably got the idea from one of the artist's photographs that show him destroying a 7,000 year old vase.

ANALYSIS: This guy is crazy and should be arrested, I would think that since he's an artist he would respect others work, but I guess not. Have fun in jail.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/18/world/ai-weiwei-vase-destroyed/index.html?hpt=wo_mid

code orange smog!...JULIA WOLTJEN

SUMMARY: On Monday Beijing issued a orange smog alert (very bad). This is the first time since last year that the smog has reached orange standard. And it isn't looking good. All across China the smog has been getting worse and has even caused citizens to remain onside on bad days.

ANALYSIS: China just needs to come up with better regulations on their factories and industrial places. I mean no one else is having this issue, come on. If they regulated the amount of hours a factory can run that would really help with the smog issue. Get it together China...

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/24/world/asia/beijing-smog-solutions/index.html?hpt=wo_t2

Turkey Calls on the UN to Help Syria - by Frances Garnett

Ahmet Davutoğlu, Turkey's Foreign Minister, has exhorted the UN to provide humanitarian aid to the regions of Syria that are under siege. He says that hundreds of people have died and there isn't a single resolution from the UN Security Council. He also said, in response to Turkish troops opening fire on a groups of vehicles from Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (an armed group in Iraq and Syria, compared to the al-Qaeda, which it pledged allegiance to), that they didn't want to intervene, but a threat came to them. He is especially concerned about preventing the regime of Bashar Assad, President of Syria, of escaping the formation of a transition government, and that it wasn't truthful about how many chemical weapons they still have, even after agreeing to eliminate their supply last year. He stated that the use of chemical weapons is a crime against humanity, the people who committed the crime should be prosecuted, and that world leaders carry this responsibility. Currently, there are two million people in Turkey, Lebanon and Iraq who have fled from the fighting in Syria. Recently, UN peacekeepers have been criticized for being ineffective, having declared safe areas in Bosnia for Muslims and yet doing nothing to secure them, so tons of them were massacred by the Serbs. Also, they were accused of not doing anything while Hutu killed thousands of Tutsi people.

This article made me reflect on something I read in class about the UN's failure to achieve it's original goal, when it was set up in 1945, to save future generations from war, also questioning if it should be reformed or not. This other article also said while it was created to be unbiased, the UN has had so much trouble with decision making between all those countries. Ever since reading these articles, I've always thought that the United Nations was very successful, probably like many others, but now I'm rethinking that. I think that maybe what's needed to solve this problem of decision making is to replace it's current Security Council with a new one (because it is very unlikely that leaders will be able to come up with solutions soon). I sympathize with Turkey and other Middle Eastern countries who have to host refugees, because it's probably a big strain on their infrastructure and costs a lot of money. That's also probably an issue in the UN: there's only a limited amount of money to spend, and there's a surplus of projects and conflicts to use it for. I think that, unless it's reformed and becomes more efficient, the UN should be replaced with another organization, with a different and more "together" structure, so that countries like Turkey don't have to be subjected to difficult situations anymore (for the time being, that is).


Source: http://www.haberturk.com/general/haber/918196-turkey-fm-called-for-humanitarian-aid-to-syria

Carbon Monoxide Leak by Anna Pickett

     A carbon monoxide leak at a mall restaurant in Long Island, New York, cause the death of the manager. It also cause 26 others to need hospital treatment. A woman started feeling dizzy, so when the police came to investigate, they found out it was carbon monoxide. The leak was found in the flue pipe of the water heater. The restaurant did not have a carbon monoxide detector.
     This is pretty scary. Two years ago, there was a carbon monoxide leak at my middle school. Luckily, people were only feeling nauseous and no one died or was seriously injured. Hopefully, more buildings will put up carbon monoxide detectors. They are probably as essential as smoke detectors, even though carbon monoxide leaks are not as frequent. My prayers go out to the family of the manager.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/23/justice/new-york-carbon-monoxide-poisoning/index.html?hpt=us_c1

India VS. China...JULIA WOLTJEN

SUMMARY: A few days ago the Chinese talked down a simmering situation going on between India and China. The dispute is that China is looking to expand its borders into India, and India doesn't like the idea of that. China says this is jut left over from the war back in 1962, but you never know.

ANALYSIS: They need to chill out before this erupts into another war, and really that never gets anywhere. So, just please stop.

http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304610404579402833047196794?mg=reno64-wsj&url=http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticle%2FSB10001424052702304610404579402833047196794.html

rouge leopard...JULIA WOLTJEN

SUMMARY: On Sunday a leopard was found Ina high populated barn, because some mischievous villagers messed with it the animal then bolted to the nearest town where it then entered a hospital. The chase in the hospital was very intense, lasting almost 12 hours. But it eventually ended when the leopard exited breaking through a concrete wall and biting a guard. The guard is okay but promises revenge on the still loose animal...

ANALYSIS: First of all this is very scary but kind of funny! I mean the guard wants revenge like do you nit have anything better to do? Oh well I'm on the leopard's side because it was villagers fault for provoking it but hey...good luck to both!

http://blogs.wsj.com/indiarealtime/2014/02/24/leopard-terrifies-patients-after-entering-hospital/?mod=irt&mod=irt

Shirley temple black- sk hatcher.

Shirley timple black died on feb 10th. She was not only a famous childhood actress, but also a social and political advocate. She was a role model for women and an ambassador to the UN. She did many wonderful things for our nation and will he dearly missed.

She played a big part in my childhood. I watched all her films and as I grew and became involved in model UN (I am now the undersecretary general for the international GEMUN conference) she has been my role model in model United Nations along with acting. I am heartbroken by her death. 

http://www.standardmedia.co.ke/entertainment/article/4352/original-child-star-shirley-temple-dies-at-85

Pakistan Taliban Commander Killed by Bob Cummins

     Recently, Asmatullah Shaheen, along with two others, was shot dead while driving through the village of Dargah Mandi near Miranshah in North Waziristan.  Unknown attackers ambushed them by shooting their car.  They died on the spot.  After Hakimullah Mehsud was killed last year in a US drone strike, Shaheen took his spot briefly as the Pakistani Taliban interim leader.  Since Mehsud's death in November, there have been many attacks by unidentified gunmen on militants in tribal areas.  Who killed Shaheen is unclear, though.  At the time of his death, he was on a Pakistani government's most wanted militants list, his reward being 10 million rupees ($95,000).

     I wonder if this was a hard blow to the Pakistani Taliban.  They might have been ready for it, though, considering that their last leader died in November.  The guy who killed him is going to stay in hiding, probably, since he doesn't want the Taliban after him, because, if they found out who killed their leader, they would probably want revenge on his head.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-26323200

Rosberg isn't gloating about Mercedes success by Becca H.

Nico Rosberg, driver for Mercedes, says it is "too early" to tell how well their new car is. Given the new rules for formula 1 this year, the cars have been redesigned and many teams are falling into issues. So far, Rosberg has had the fastest time for the testing laps but he is too proud to gloat.

I am proud of Mercedes for pulling through with the new design. I know Red Bull had a lot of trouble with their cooling system and fuel consumption as well as many other teams. Another plus is that Nico is pretty hot. I mean seriously. PLUS he's a formula 1 driver which just makes him 20 times better.

Uganda homosexuality laws- sk hatcher

President of Uganda makes anti homosexuality laws. Homosexual acts punishable by life in prison. The president claims it's a choice not a genetic defect and it's not a right. He says "They're disgusting. What sort of people are they?" he said. "I never knew what they were doing. I've been told recently that what they do is terrible. Disgusting. But I was ready to ignore that if there was proof that that's how he is born, abnormal. But now the proof is not there."

This is so sad. Making people who are just being themselves change their feelings to avoid life in prison? He is closed minded and unrealistic. Not a choice, a genetic trait. 

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/24/world/africa/uganda-homosexuality-interview/index.html?c=homepage-t

Flappy bird murders

The owner of flappy bird had officially shit down the app. People are now freaking out and splurging to buy phones with the app on them. It's becoming an international addiction and has even caused children to flunk school, adults to loose jobs, and in one households a murder. A boy was playing flappy birds with his brother and a flappy bird score dispute lead to murder. 

How can an app do this? People are blaming the gamemaker for it when In reality where is your self control people? 

http://au.ibtimes.com/articles/537919/20140209/chicago-teen-kills-brother-over-flappy-bird.htm

Ukraine-sk hatcher

The president of the Ukraine oysted! People have taken over and he is no longer in charge. There is now a warrant for president viktors attest. 

Frankly this is so frightening seeing how easily they did this and how it could happen anywhere. 

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/24/world/europe/ukraine-politics/

Polio? -SK hatcher

Just in California many children averaging on 12 years old are become sick with a disease similar to polio having paralysis. Nobody knows what this is, but all the kids have been vaccinated for polio. Now 159 similar cases are being looked into. 

This is very scary. Polio coming back? It's so dangerous and painful, I've had family members who had polio. 

News 8 at 5:30 wfaa

Insomnia or mutation? -SK hatcher

Many people have recently come out and said that they can easily and comfortably function on 1-4 hours of sleep. They're not insomniacs, it's not unhealthy, it's a genetic mutation. Bill Clinton also has this. It's a genetic disease and from research so far is benififial to those people. Their sleep cycle is simply shrunk into half the time. 

I personally wish I had this mutation. I would be able to get a lot done and still feel good and not miss the day! 

Chanel 8 wfaa news

Wow, Pollution, By: Hannah Kerman

In Beijing China, smog has always been a huge issue. Yet, recently they reached their second highest amount of it. The smog is supposed to ease towards the end of the week, but people should not have to wear a gas mask just to step outside. Ranked second for worst city with smog, Beijing is trying different technological methods to reduce the smog, but people should not have to go inside to find fresh air. Most of their factories have contributed to the smog, and some of the ones surrounding Beijing have been temporarily shut down till the smog has eased. People have started to protest the smog by joining a nearly naked run, which people run wearing nothing but their underwear.
This is a huge issue as the world gets more innovative, but everything has their price, and it seems that the environment is the one who is dealing with our problems. Factories and pollution have enveloped the world, and it is going to take lots of work to return the Earth to a healthy place. The air is so bad we have to get fresheners and schools have built indoor playgrounds. We need to become more innovative while also being environmentally safe.
http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/24/world/asia/beijing-smog-solutions/index.html?hpt=ias_c2

Syria barrel bombs 'kill dozens of civilians' in Aleppo by Kegan Cole

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-26008512

summary: 90 civilians were killed in Syria due to barrel bombs. They were dropped by helecopter because of  "bitter fighting between President Bashar al-Assad's forces and rebels."fighting has been causing many violent acts such as this.analysis: i think it is very sad what is going on here and, like many people, i cant wait to see the end to things like this. Incedents like these continue to remind me how lucky I am to live where i do.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/23/world/asia/thailand-protests/index.html?c=asia

Protests in Thailand have reached a fever pitch this weekend and four people died. The protesters are protesting the government of the Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Sinwatra. On saturday, a 5 year old girl died and 34 others were wounded. Today, a 6 year old girl, 12 year old boy, and a 40 year old woman were killed from a bomb blast by a mall. 22 were wounded and a preteen boy was in critical condition. Yingluck says she will find the killers and deal with them accordingly, and she wished that they would come to her because she is open to talk to anyone who has suggestions for the government, but violence isn't the right way to state their business.

senior al-Qaeda commander killed in Syria (?)

Rebel troops say that a senior al-Qaeda member was killed in a suicide bomb attack in the town of Allepo. There was no immediate claim on who did the bombing or who he/she was working for. However, the rebels quickly accused the Islamic state. Could have this been an accident? If it was a commander, it couldn't be accidental. Yet, what if the commander hired the suicide bomber. There is no other information about the person that did it, but whoever did, it's safe to say we are one step closer to ending the war against al Qaeda.

17+ Deaths in Iraq, By: JonCope

17+ Deaths in Iraq By: Jon Cope

Summary:
   This week, over 17 people in Iraq were killed, and over 35 people were wounded in a violent fight with many attacks in a Market south of Baghdad. The attack started in Musayyib, Babil province, which is mostly Shiite. Furthermore, a ministry will offer a reward of about $17k to each foreign fighter killed, and $25k if a foreign militant is captured alive in a war-torn nation.

Analysis:
   I believe this is horrible! I don't see why people want to attack others or kill others! I also consider this a sort of bribing, and they pay people only if they catch the criminals.

Jon Cope

Source: http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/20/world/meast/iraq-violence/index.html?hpt=imi_c2

19 Afghan soldiers killed, 9 missing after attack by Katelyn McLane

Militants attacked an Afghan National Army outpost on early Sunday, in eastern Afghanistan. They don't know whether the missing 9 men were also killed or if the insurgents took them alive. The body of one militant was found in the area, but they aren't sure whether any others were killed or wounded. Kunar, where the attack took place, is a key transit route for militants from Pakistan. It's also the been the scene of some of the fiercest fighting for USA troops in the Afghan war.

It's a shame that this important transit route is so dangerous. They should try to increase security in the area if there's obviously been a large amount of fighting going on. I'm not sure how many other attacks like this have happened there, but I hope none of them happen again and that the missing men, especially if they're alive, are found. My heart goes out to the friends and families of those killed and missing from the attack.

Source: http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/23/world/asia/afghanistan-attack/index.html?hpt=ias_c2

Guzman captured- Andrew Tunell

Mexico's number one public enemy Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman was captured recently in Mexico. Guzman is the number one drug lord in all of North America and is responsible for 1000s of deaths, corrupting  Mexico's government officials, and conduction the worlds most prolific drug-trafficing organization.  This is the second time he has been caught and the first in 2001 he escaped from prison. There are many many charges against him in Mexico and the U.S.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/23/justice/el-chapo-us-extradition/index.html?hpt=hp_t1
Wow I really hope that this time he won't escape from prison. Guzman is responsible for most the crime in Mexico and I hope that his capture will help out Mexico's government and economy.

Mamicho Lubola killed by Crocodile

Summary: Mamicho Lubola, a Kitwe girl age twelve living in Zambia, was killed yesterday (Saturday) around 09:00 hours. Her and her two other sisters had left to go swim in the river behind their house that day. Her younger sister, Mpunda, described how she and her other sister had tried to call to her to get out of the water, and then watched as she was eaten. The girls' mother, Beatrice Muleba, had gone out to visit a relative but had turned back at some point. When she returned, she learned of what happened to Mamicho, and tried to get help from the police, who refused to attend to her because the crocodile had already eaten Mamicho. Police spokesperson Charity Chanda has been given time to gather more details on the subject.
Analysis: This is awful, I wish this could have been prevented somehow. Maybe the mother could have gotten someone to watch the children, not that I'm blaming the mother; it's terrible that this happened to them and authorities should figure out some way to ensure the safety of those who swim in the river from now on.
Source: http://allafrica.com/stories/201402170827.html

Flooding in Barundi by Julia F

At least 69 people, including children, have been killed in the central Africa nation of Burundi because of torrential rains, an aid group said Thursday.More than 180 people have been injured, the group said, adding that it would expect to see more casualties as rescue teams reach more of the affected areas.The storm is causing chaos in and around the capital of Bujumbura.Close to 20,000 people have been displaced and more than 2,000 families have been left homeless, the aid group said. Roads and crops have also been damaged.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/20/world/africa/burundi-flooding/index.html?c=africa

At least 4 dead in bomb blast in Lebanon by Kegan Cole

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/01/world/meast/lebanon-explosion/index.html?hpt=imi_c1

summary: At about 6 pm, a bomb went off near a furl station in Lebanon, killing at least 4 people. It is said it was a suicide bomber who set off the bombs, making people question the security of the country. people are saying it is a terrible incident and think it is very unfortunate that the lives of innocent people had to be taken.

analysis: I think it is terrible that someone would go out of their way to kill themselves and others. i do question the security of the country as well, although i think there are people everywhere who make decisions like this, and there may not be anything that van be done about it.

New State in India- Amanda Maceda

After many violent protests during the past days, India will have a new state after the bill is signed into law by the president. The bill create the state Telengana, cuttting the current state, Andhra Pradesh, in two. The population will be about 35 million and will be prodominantley agricultural. There is a lot of bickerment towards the decision, one reason being the capital of Andra Pradesh is now in Telengana, so they will share the capital for ten years and then Andhra Pradesh will have to create a new one. Source:http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-26270953

Fired for a Twix? by Becca Hodge

A man in Iowa was fired after using a forklift to get a stuck twix out of a vending machine. He reportedly lifted the vending machine and dropped it several feet from the ground. He sadly did not get his Twix bar, but instead received three other chocolate bars that fell out.

I find this hilarious. He was reported saying "That machine was trouble" after he banged on the glass with no success. And now the place where he worked has new vending machines making his anger ever worse. I feel bad that the guy didn't even get his twix after going through all that trouble. Life is full of disappointments.

Source

contaminated water leaked from Fukushima power plant by Eleanor E-W

The Fukushima nucleur power plant in Japan leaked contaminated water out.  The water has been going into the ground. Luckily none of the contaminated water got into the Pacific Ocean. The company has stopped the leak and is trying to check on the damage.

A nucleur plant leaking water sounds scary. I hope that this will make this company and other companies more cautious and careful so they do not leak contaminated water anymore, so it will be less likely to harm people.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/19/world/asia/japan-fukushima-daiichi-water-leak/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

California Drought by Eleanor E-W

There is a serious drought going on right now in California. It is considered the worst drought that California has ever had (in recorded history). It has been going on for a long time. The governor has asked citizens of California to try and conserve and reduce water use.

I hope that California gets out of this drought soon. I also hope the people of California try to conserve water to make sure that they don't run out and are using there resources well. I hope the drought gets better.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/20/us/california-drought/index.html?hpt=us_c2

Chemical found in West Virginias water supply by Eleanor E-W

in Charleston, West Virginia it was discovered that chemicals had leaked into the drinking and bathing water. People smelled a weird licorice like smell, got rashes, and became lightheaded from the water which alerted authorities who checked it out. They say that it is now safe to drink, but people in Charleston arent sure, they say they are still getting rashes and having other reactions to the water.

I can't imagine what it would like to not be able to drink from the tap or bath at all for weeks. Not to mention the health affects! No one knows that much about the health affects of the chemical, so they're not entirely sure how it will affect the people. That's scary for the people living there-I hope theyre okay.

Source:http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/20/health/west-virginia-water/index.html?hpt=us_c2

Iowa town evacuated by Eleanor Evans-Wickberg

After a fire in a small town in Iowa the people were evacuated.  Several people in the town complained of having breathing problems. The fire came from somewhere where chemicals used for crops and agriculture (it is a small town in Iowa) were stored which made the fire worse.

If the entire town was evacuated, I guess it means it must have been pretty small. I'm glad that no one was injured, and I hope that the town will recover from the fire as soon as possible.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/20/us/iowa-evacuation-fire/index.html?hpt=us_c2

nuns go to jail by Eleanor E-W

A nun was sentanced to years in prison for destroying property by breaking into a nucleur facility. Two nun 'peacekeepers' broke into a nucleur facility and after hiking for about a mile, put up posters and in general vandalized a nucleur facility. They were convicted and are going to prison.

I think this is intersting. I know that nuns are supposed to be like holy people, so it's weird that they are going to jail. But they did what they did for peaceful reasons so I guess that makes it a little less weird. 

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/18/justice/tennessee-nun-sentenced/index.html?hpt=us_c2

Sochi Hotels are not the greatest - Anna Pickett

     At the beginning of the Olympics, many athletes had a lot of trouble with their hotels. The preparations for the hotels were off schedule, so many athletes got stuck with poor conditions in their hotel. Sochi needed to construct many hotel rooms, so they had to try and get everything prepared by the time the games started.
     I think they've probably learned from what they've done. All the situations that I've read have been terrible, but it seems like everyone is handling it well, and the employees were being very polite. Hopefully, future hosts of the Olympics will learn from this!
Source: http://www.cbssports.com/olympics/eye-on-olympics/24446785/ioc-official-we-recognized-sochi-hotel-problems-too-late

South Korea resort roof collapses, killing 10: By Paige Kutschall

"SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A resort auditorium's roof loaded down with snow and rain collapsed during a welcoming ceremony for South Korean university freshmen, killing 10 and injuring more than 100, officials said Tuesday. Emergency staff worked through the night to pull people from beneath twisted metal and other debris and rush the injured on stretchers to waiting ambulances. Snow, sleet and icy roads hampered rescue operations. The collapse happened late Monday. About 560 students from Busan University of Foreign Studies had gathered for a two-day freshman orientation at the Manua Ocean Resort in the southeastern city of Gyeongju. Recent heavy snow combined with rain likely put too much pressure on the structure, said Kim In-you, a fire rescue squad team leader for the Busan Fire Department. Ten people died, two people were seriously injured and 103 lightly injured, said Jung Yoon-han, director of the disaster management department at the Ministry of Security and Public Administration. Many of the students managed to get out of the building by themselves, officials said. Repeated calls to the university and the resort were unanswered. Gyeongju is a historic city and popular tourist destination that served as the capital of one of the Korean Peninsula's ancient kingdoms. Located at an altitude of about 500 meters (1,640 feet), the resort is at the foot of Dongdae Mountain, according to the resort's website. Weather officials said the area has received heavy snow over the last week"

Source:

http://news.yahoo.com/south-korea-resort-roof-collapses-killing-10-015948410.html

miners commit a minor offense by polly hynds-riddle

in south america there are mine shafts which are illegal to use but as a source of income many people have decided to use them but recently around 15 miners have become stuck in the mines! there have been 11 rescued and arrested

i think this is sad because the people had so few options for money they endangered themselves and broke the law to have an income. the mines were most likely closed as to avoid a situation like this.

source:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-26223328

Pact to Protect Sharks Signed by UAE and other Arab Countries: by Frances

Today (Monday) in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and eight other Arab countries signed an agreement, called the Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation of Migratory Sharks (aka the MoU) to protect migrating sharks from shark traffickers, who usually want the sharks for their fins. even though fining is illegal to do in the UAE. Fining (removing their fins) causes slow, agonizing deaths for sharks since they usually are taken out of the water whole, have their fins cut off, and then are dumped back into the sea. Around seventy million sharks are killed per year because of the demand for their fins in China and other parts of East and southeast Asia, where they are used in soup (a bowl can cast around $100) and traditional medicines. Some sharks aren't even intentionally killed, but are caught with other marine animals, hit by boats, or have difficulty migrating due to climate change and altering temperatures. This agreement is a start to a larger commitment of protecting migrating sharks. In the UAE, a national plan of conservation is in progress, and some shark species, like the dugong and the whale shark, are already protected under current laws.

My school had some speakers come in last year, so I've learned quite a bit about how dangerous the shark fin industry is for sharks. We mostly learned about why restaurants and hotels should stop serving shark fin soup, and here are some reasons: (1) Shark fin contain high levels of mercury (about five times the maximum amount humans should consume daily) that can be dangerous to humans, (2) the fins don't even have a taste, so they are just there for "decoration" while being flavoured with other things, and (3) sharks are suffering enormously. I agree very strongly that all shark hunting and fining should be stopped, but I know many people don't. Shark fin soup is an ancient Chinese tradition and delicacy, but lately it has become more common, though it still remains a symbol of prestige, which many restaurants and hotels with high status won't want to give up. I believe, though, that the world is advancing, and circumstances have changed, so some traditions must end for the greater good.

Source: http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/uae-signs-pact-to-protect-sharks-from-fin-traffickers-1.1292279

Investigation goes on of vandalism in platte county

The alleged perps broke into Platte County R-3 High School through the second floor and then broke into a computer lab. They damaged equipment, computers, and even disabled part of the school's telephone system. In some places, graffiti was also left in their wake. Some vending machines were damaged as well.
Analysis:
These people have absolutely no respect for their school and its property. In high school, a healthy level of respect and care for your school is expected and appreciated by the school. That's something these kids need to learn.

Two Rhinos killed in Kenya

Summary: Two rhinos were killed in Ol Jogi Ranch, Kenya last Tuesday evening. They were killed by two unknown poachers in Laikipia North subcounty. Three suspects have been arrested by security officers at the park. The animals were found dead between 3pm and 6pm. A tusk was taken from the scene.
Analysis: It's clear that the reason for the poaching was again the amount of money that ivory tusks can be sold for in Africa. What they should do is just ban the selling of it anywhere in Africa; then the people living there would be less motivated to do it, since it'd be so difficult to sell. I know a couple countries have done this in Africa and it hasn't gone so well though; I'm hoping that that's just because neighboring countries haven't banned it, and they're killing there and selling in the neighboring countries. If that's the case, if all of Africa eventually banned it, maybe the poachers would just give up and find a new means to making money.
Source: http://allafrica.com/stories/201402140793.html

Explosion on tour bus in Egypt by: Shadden Hashem

                "At least four people died and 14 were wounded on Sunday by an explosion on a tourist bus in the Egyptian resort town of Taba," authorities said. The bus was heading to Israel and was waiting in line near a border crossing when it happened. Egypt has so many problems going on now. Tourists getting killed is just terrible. They were just coming to see and experience Egypt, not to get killed.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/16/world/meast/egypt-explosion/index.html

3600 year old mummy-JULIA WOLTJEN

SUMMARY: Recently a group of archeologists dug up a sarcophagus with a mummy still inside. This mummy is said to have been a government official, in fact his name is engraved on the side but they have still yet to identify him. This was a routine dig in Egypt, but the outcome was far from normal. To find a mummy this old that is still intact is one of the rarest discoveries known to man. Archeologists say the mummy dates back to 1600 B.C. which was during the Pharonic period.

ANALYSIS: This discovery is remarkable and amazing. The fact that the Egyptians did this has served to be a great window into humans earliest known history! Long story short, thank you Egyptians!

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/13/world/africa/egypt-mummy-discovery/

Women Rights Improving By: Hannah Kerman

In Saudi Arabia, a woman, Somayya Jabarti, has finally become an editor at a major newspaper company. She was the only one right for the job because she had all the right training from the previous writer. She used to translate for the Arab News which started her job in journalism. Jabarti's biggest problem will be working in a field dominated by men, and what the country will think. Today women can't drive because it's against their religion, but this is a big step towards improving feminism in the Middle East.
I think this is amazing because in a lot of countries men dominate most fields and women are to stay home. This creates big tension over gender roles. Of course in the U.S., that isn't as big of an issue although it's still present, but in many other countries women have little to no rights and this is a huge advancement for women in the Middle East.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/17/world/meast/saudi-arabia-female-editor/index.html?hpt=imi_c2

miners in South Africa traped- Andrew Tunell

      Recently in South Africa a abandoned mine shaft has been found to be in used by illegal miners. These miners were trapped inside after another illegal mining group blocked the exit allowing just the air ducts for entrances.  It was estimated that about 200 miners were in the mine but the latest estimates are as low as 15. So far only 11 miners have left the shaft and have been arrested. Police hope the rest will come out soon before they run out of resources.
     http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-26223328
    These miners are in fear of being arrested for using a abandoned mine shaft, I don't know why the government won't allow them to use the shaft if their not going to use it. Although the government has been loosing money from illegal miners like this I don't know why they don't open the shafts and allow then to mine legally. I just  hope that the miners choose to come out soon.

Co pilot hijacks Ethiopian airlines by Julia F

 A co-pilot on an Ethiopian Airlines flight bound for Rome hijacked the airliner early Monday morning and flew it to Geneva, Switzerland, looking for asylum. In Monday's incident, Flight 702 had taken off from the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa and was headed to Rome, the airline said.

The co-pilot took control of the plane when the pilot went to the restroom, said Swiss police spokesman Jean-Philippe Brandt. 

www.cnn.com/2014/02/17/world/europe/ethiopian-airlines-hijacking/index.html?c=world

firefighter died, large memorial service.

A Dallas firefighter died in line of duty and a lot of firefighters are expected to go to the service. Not only is it from Dallas, but Austin, Houston and New York that a lot of firefighters are going to attend the funeral service. This is really nice from firefighters around all over the country and pay respect for this one firefighter. Now this is very nice of them. I have nothing else to say. Cameron Ordinario

Bus Bombed in Taba by Bob Cummins

      On Sunday,  the driver and two South Korean passengers were killed by an explosive in a tourist bus.  At least seventeen others were injured by the blast.
      Egypt's interim president's spokesman, Adley Mansour, said that the bombing was a "despicable act of cowardice directed at innocent tourists."
     The blast happened when the bus stopped for a break in Taba near the border of the Sinai Peninsula.  Officials say that the explosive was possibly under the driver's seat.  The explosion damaged the chassis badly, when it became engulfed in fire.
     Since former president of Egypt, Mohamed Morsi was ousted by the military, jihadists have been extremely violent, carrying out many bombings.  Recently, a militant group Ansar Beit al-Maqdis has said that they were responsible  for deadly attacks in Cairo.  Militants have not targeted the tourists in Egypt, though.  This bus incident was the first deadly militant attack on tourists in Egypt in three years at least.
     The tourism minister in Egypt, Hisham Zaazou, said, "This will not reoccur."

     Let's just hope this doesn't reoccur.  Writing articles about stuff like this makes you feel fortunate that you live in the United States.  One thing this article did not mention explicitly was the aim of the jihadists. They're probably targeting tourists to prevent westernization.  Egypt just needs to bump up security.  This is a bit ridiculous.  People, including me, need to know more about this, which is why this article was written, but nobody wants to read it.  Kareem Fahim, who co-wrote this article has done other articles about jihadists, so he knows what's up.  I just wish I knew more details about what's going on over there.

Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/17/world/middleeast/bus-bombing-kills-tourists-in-sinai-egypt.html?ref=middleeast&_r=0

Poverty: Cacao's Story by Kera Mickus

Hey! Remember three days ago, Valentine's day? Remember how much chocolate was being handed out and given to everyone's "special person"? Well, not to make you feel bad, but when you were giving people those little momentos and that box of chocolate, just how many times did you think about the child laborers (the children and teens your age) who had to work day and night to make that food to ship to America to be put in your local store to be given to the one you love? Probably not many times, if any at all. Do you know where Cacao comes from? Yea, Africa. But, specifically, where in Africa? Think: Ivory Coast. Plantations. Lots of connections and the ability to hide child enslavement and child labor. About a 3rd of the world is supplied with Cacao from this one area, and 3.5 million people are sustained by this growing economy. And no, I am not just making this up. "The chocolate industry is worth an estimated $110 billion a year, and yet its key commodity is grown by some of the poorest people on the planet, in plantations that can hide the worst forms of child labour." says Matt Percival of CNN. "Accurate figures are impossible to come by, but up to 800,000 children are thought to work in the cocoa sector across the Ivory Coast; children who are both a symptom of and a self-perpetuating factor in a much wider problem -- poverty." 
So for all you chocoholics and foodholics alike, next time you see that Hershey or Babe Ruth, maybe think about picking up some gummies instead? (And for my fellow vegetarians........ Oranges?)


Source:

http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/13/world/africa/cocoa-nomics-does-chocolate-grow-on-trees/index.html?hpt=iaf_t5

Don't Blame Russia - Max Gaddis

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/15/world/africa/uganda-anti-gay-bill/index.html?hpt=wo_c1

Many of you know that Russia passed strict anti-gay laws lately, and Uganda has decided to do the same, but not because they are following Russia, but because they believe gay people are sick and need to be treated with medicine. The bill isn't the first anti-gay law introduced to the continent of Africa, but they are claiming that western culture is the cause of this "epidemic" and is destroying family lifestyles and the Ugandan culture. Homosexuality is a ''taboo'' in most of Africa, and not many Africans are open with the topic, fearing for their well-being, jobs, and status. On friday, the president of Uganda declared that homosexuality was ''not a disease, but merely an abnormal behavior which may be learned through experiences in life."

This whole thing is extremely hilarious to me.

Moqtada Sadr Retires Nash F.

Today the radical Iraqi leader Moqtada Sadr has retired from politics. Mr. Sadar had anti-U.S. views on the U.S. occupation of Iraq. He later used his militia to fight off the occupation and was later exiled for his actions. Despite his beliefs he actually called for peace in Iraq.  To me this shows how even people we villainies or receive some national hate still are nice people who just have some radical beliefs. 

Bibliography:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-26214140

Lebanon lawmakers form new government by Katelyn McLane

Lebanon has finally formed a new system of government after a little less than year since the last prime minister resigned. Tammam Salam is the new head of government. There have been increasing tensions in Lebanon in recent months, so it is a relief to finally have new government finalized.

I had no idea before that Lebanon didn't have a stable government since last March, but I'm glad they finally do. I hope everything starts off well and works out well for a long time.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/15/world/meast/lebanon-government/index.html

Mummy! Mummy! By Jon Cope

Mummy! Mummy! By: Jon Cope

Summary:
   Recently, a sarcophagus was dug up in Egypt with an actual mummy inside! According to archaeologists, the mummy is 3600 years old, and dates back to 1600 BCE! The sarcophagus was engraved with the mummy's title, but they haven't yet succeeded at figuring out who he is.
Analysis:
   This is actually pretty interesting. if they are able to identify who he is, this could be a major aspect of history! This will also help scientists better understand preservation.

Jon Cope

Source: http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/13/world/africa/egypt-mummy-discovery/index.html?hpt=iaf_t5

Bahrain Prostest and Bombing- Amanda Maceda

Yesterday, on the third anniversary of Bahrain's uprising, there was an alleged "terrorist blast". "Several demonstrators were reportedly wounded by security forces. The interior ministry said in a statement that 26 people were arrested on suspicion of "rioting and vandalism"."The police wer using tear gas and force tonhold back protestors. Then there was a bomb blast which killed one of the two officers wounded. There was another explosion nearby that injured three.

Car bomb near African airport by Becca Hodge

A car bomb exploded near the airport in Mogadishu. Six people have been reported killed and many are injured. This bomb was strategically place by the UN refuge agency convey. Eyewitnesses state that many of the UN's vehicles were damaged by the explosion.

Hopefully they will get to the bottom of who ever did this. This is cruel and I hope the people pay for what they did.

Source

Giraffe Killed at a Zoo - Anna Pickett

     The Copenhagen Zoo killed a young, healthy giraffe named Marius recently. A vet shot him with a rifle, performed an autopsy in front of children, and then proceeded to feed him to lions. They say that the reason he was killed was to avoid inbreeding. Many people are outraged and very angry with the zoo. People have started signing petitions to get the head person fired. The zoo says that people shouldn't be so harsh because they don't understand what is normal in Danish culture.
     I absolutely disagree with this. If he was healthy, why should he be killed? There were multiple offers by many zoos to take Marius. I think it's sick to show an autopsy of a giraffe in front of children. You can teach about the anatomy of a giraffe without actually showing a dead giraffe. I would have been scarred if I had seen a dead giraffe lying in front of me, especially if it was being fed to lions. This was definitely not a wise choice for the zoo to make.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/10/world/europe/denmark-zoo-giraffe/index.html?hpt=hp_t3

i want my mummy by polly hynds-riddle

recently a group of archeologists went on a routine dig in Egypt and discovered a mummy that is around 3,600 YEARS OLD. this is an incredibly rare discovery. he seems to be important governmentally!

this s so cool i have always thought mummies were so awesome and so this is very exciting!!!!


source:

http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/13/world/africa/egypt-mummy-discovery/

Saudi Arabia Decides Against 2-day Weekend: by Frances Garnett

The Council of Saudi Chambers (CSC) has rejected the Shoura Council's, a formal advisory board that can suggest things but not pass actual laws, proposal of a two-day weekend and a 40-hour working week for private sector workers. Their arguments were that: 1. It would negatively affect the economy by increasing business and labour costs, since 58% of the GDP comes from the private sector, 2. It would not make the private sector more appealing for jobseekers, and other more effective ways to do that are providing training and strengthening job security3. Businesses would lose money, having to pay more workers for overtime to meet deadlines, increasing wage costs by 30%, 4. It would increase the prices of goods and services locally, 5. The 48-hour and 1-day weekend have already helped expand and complete project and create jobs, and 6. The kingdom's exports would be less competitive.

This debate over a 1 or 2 day weekend and a 40 or 48 hour is very interesting, because it has strong arguments on both sides. My basic prior knowledge of working weeks is that the United States and many other countries (such as Japan, the UK, and Mexico) all typically have 40-hour weeks, with a maximum of 48 hours that usually isn't expected of employees. Most Saudis actually want to have a 40-hour week and 2-day weekend, because that is what most employees want and may make them more committed and more productive, helping with the already existing fierce competitiveness in the country. Government employees already gets more benefits (like a 40-hour week and 2-day weekend), though people working for private companies don't tend to. Even though the articles I read were neutral, most opinions in the articles and comments on them were in favour of the 2-day and 40-hour. One woman said that she might quit her job if not allowed to spend more time with her family, and that people aren't machines. Personally, I can't imagine having only one day of "rest", though I can see how it would affect productivity, since most Saudis work in companies following the 48-hour system, and if that were changed, business would have to redo tons of contracts. One person suggested reducing weeks to 45 hours, since "things should not be considered in haste", and I agree. I often wish the world wouldn't move so fast, because you have to give up a lot to keep up, and I hope the system changes in Saudi Arabia, because though it may not be as "productive", when you look at the big picture, being with family and friends is much more important in life.

Source: http://www.arabnews.com/news/521396 , & http://www.arabnews.com/news/519816

explosion in Iraq by: Shadden Hashem

               "An explosion killed at least 21 militants in Iraq Monday, apparently when a lesson on car bombing went wrong, police said. Police said they found a camera inside a house where the blast took place, leading them to believe someone was filming the installation of explosives into a vehicle for propaganda purposes. After a loud explosion, security officials rushed to the scene and found body parts, mostly of young men, scattered about. Six people were critically injured. Security forces arrested four men fleeing." -CNN This sounds very scary to witness. I'm glad some of the men were arrested. 

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/10/world/meast/iraq-fatal-bomb-making-lesson/index.html

Death to Kenyan Football fan, after stabbing by Gabriel David Giron Vives

Summery: Today, a man was stabbed to death after taunting a rival fan at a Football game.

Analysis: Boo! Way to ruin everything man. I mean come on! You stabbed someone to death over a game? A football game! COME ON! You murdered a man. For a game. A GAME.
You are sad. It is sad he is dead. Link. 

goodbye

Ceasefire in Homs, Syria has been extended for another 3 days

Since June of 2012, parts of Homs have been besieged. Recently, a ceasefire was called and has now been extended. "I hope this will allow us to evacuate yet more civilians and deliver much needed additional supplies" says Valerie Amos, the U.N. humanitarian chief. More than 800 civilians have left the city since last Friday. However, the ceasefire, put in place by the U.N., has been violated more than once in Homs. U.N. and Red Crescent vehicles were targeted by gunfire and explosives trying to get into the city.

Insurgents die by thier own Bomb- Amanda Maceda

Earlier this afternoon, around 20 insurgents were killed by their own planned kill. These men had been in the process of filming the would be cuicide propaganda video. The insurgents had a very explosives filled vehicle. Luckily, but unluckily for them, it blew up earllier than planned, only a little bit from their main compound on a main road 12 miles from Samarra, Iraq. After the explosion was heard, security forces in the area rushed to the site arresting 12 wounded and 10 attempting to flee.

Hunger in The Middle East By: Hannah Kerman

Palestinians just outside of Syria, in the Damascus Suburbs, are dying. Specifically children. The refugees have no access to food and lots of people risk their lives to go and pick food from nearby fields. Lots of trucks with the supplies needed to save lots of lives are just miles away, but the Syrian military will not let them go in because the government refuses to help the Palestinians. Most children become so undernourished because the most important time to have nutrients is from new born to toddler because that's when a child grows the most. Moms can't help their children because their breast milk is dried up because their undernourished too.
This is absolutely awful especially since these children are helpless and their parents cannot help but watch as their children die. No parent wants to see that, but they do, while also worrying about themselves. The way of life their living is certainly not a desired one, and you should be able to choose your future, but instead Syria's government is choosing it for them.
http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/05/world/syria-children-dying-hunger/index.html?hpt=imi_t3

Iranian navy soon to be near United States by Jackson Daughety

Summary: Some of the Iranian navy vessels will be seen off United States Shores. The Iranian government gives no legitimate reason for them to do this, but says that they have no fight to pick with the United States, as the US has the most powerful navy in the world. This has become a public responce nightmare for Iran. Analysis: I think the United states shouldn'd do anything until the Iranians really cross the line. They are innocent until proven guilty as far as I am concerned. I think that this is werid behavior though, and the United States should be on the lookout. http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/10/world/meast/iran-navy-near-u-s-/index.html?hpt=hp_t3

Long-Range Missile Tested by Iran by Bob Cummins

     On Monday, the defense minister of Iran said that the Iranian military test-fired two missiles.
     Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan stated that one of the tested missiles was a long-range and ballistic.  He went on to say, "The Bina missile is capable of striking important targets such as bridges, tanks, and enemy command centers with great precision."
     Iran already possesses long-range missiles that can reach Israel and U.S. military bases located in the Middle East, even though some analysts say that Iran is not new to exaggeration.
     Iran and six world powers reached an agreement that Iran must limit its nuclear work for some international sanctions to be released.
     Iran says that their nuclear work is for electricity and research.

     Yeah sure.  This deal with Iran concerning the sanctions sounds reasonable and practical.  Reading this article is thought provoking and makes one wonder about Iran's military intentions with these missiles.  COULD they be planning to bomb Israel or American camps?  Hopefully we won't find out, at least anytime soon!   I think that it's strange how open Iran is being about this.  They announced it on TV!  I wish I knew more about the subject matter more so I would have more to talk about.


Source: http://news.yahoo.com/iran-successfully-test-fires-long-range-missile-irna-192932288.html;_ylt=A0LEVwr2VPlSGw4ATN9XNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTB0NTRvZ2trBHNlYwNzYwRjb2xvA2JmMQR2dGlkA1ZJUDI4MF8x

At least 15 pilgrims killed in Saudi Arabia hotel fire: By Paige Kutschall

"At least 15 people have been killed and 130 injured in a fire at a hotel used by pilgrims in the Saudi holy city of Medina, state media report. The blaze started on Saturday afternoon, the authorities say, in the eastern part of the city. The victims' nationalities are unclear - about 700 people from different countries were staying at the hotel. The travellers were in Medina to perform the Umra, or minor, pilgrimage made by Muslims. The city is where the the Prophet Muhammad is buried and is Islam's second holiest city, after Mecca.

Television stations in Egypt said that some Egyptians were among those who died. Egyptian foreign ministry spokesman Badr Abdelatty said Cairo was "still trying to confirm the numbers". The fire was brought under control on Saturday afternoon, with survivors transferred to other hotels in the city. Authorities are reported to have initiated an investigation into the cause of the fire."

- BBC News (http://m.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-26105944)

Justin Bieber is an idiot. By:Bella Morris

 Once again, Justin Bieber has screwed up. 2 days ago, Justin was on a private airlines smoking pot with his father, which is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard . That's messed up anyways, not only were they doing drugs together, but also harassing and being verbally and physically abusive to the airlines crew. They came to realize that they could not land the airplane with have possession of drugs on them, so they smoked all of it on the plane, forcing the pilot to put on an oxygen mask to not get high and crash the plane. Even though he's a celebrity, he is so out of hand and its gotten to a point where its hurting other people, and deserves the least bit of special treatment, which they seem to be giving him since the media isn't treating this like a big deal and the pilot put up with his behavior. In conclusion, Justin Bieber is an idiot.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/07/opinion/mark-bieber-pot-plane/index.html?iref=allsearch

Starving Deaths, By: Jon Cope

Starving Deaths, By: Jon Cope

Summary:
   Lately, over six hundred people fled their homes due to a riot of mortal fire and shootings. This all occurred in Syria. On Saturday, aid workers were trapped under fire for a long time. Sunday there was an agreed humanitarian truce.
Analysis:
   This is horrible!!! I can't believe all these people had to free from their homes because of all this "ruckus!!!!!"

Jon Cope

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-26110121

Three killed in Yemen car bomb by Katelyn McLane

A bomb was put under an officer's car near Yemen's oil ministry, and exploded near the entrance. Security is said to be very tight there, and whoever placed the bomb must have wanted the bomb to explode inside the ministry, which would've killed many more people. In another recent explosion in Sanaa, two soldiers died, and 14 more people were injured. Yemen, home to al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, is believed by many analysts to be the most dangerous affiliate of the terror network.

This is very unfortunate news. It's great, however, that the car didn't get into the ministry before it blew up. My heart goes out to the family and friends of the injured and killed in both of these bomb attacks.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/09/world/meast/yemen-attack/index.html

Monkeying Around in Japan-JULIA WOLTJEN

SUMMARY:
As a drill in Japan, a zookeeper dressed up in a gorilla costume and "became loose from the zoo". The emergency team than "tranquilized" their co-worker, wrapped him in a net and loaded him on a truck. These drills are used in Japan to help prepare for an earthquake scenario where the animals become loose and start running amuck!

ANLYSIS:
Personally, yes this is very smart but these workers acted like it was stupid and didn't get into it at all. I'm not looking for a show but I mean if that was for real and an agitated male gorilla was on the loose I really don't think a net would do much. In my personal opinion.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/07/world/asia/japan-zoo-gorilla-suit/index.html?hpt=wo_t3

A Second Peace - Max Gaddis

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/07/world/meast/syria-civil-war/index.html?hpt=wo_c2

The UN and Syria made a deal to allow certain civilians to leave the Old City section of Homs. 200 people were to be evacuated on friday to help put an end to violence and stopping Syrian blood from reaching terrorist groups' hands. In the last 3 years, the Syrian conflict has left millions dead and over 100,000 people dead. In this agreement, a cease-fire went into effect and citizens over 55 and under 15 will get on busses and leave the city if they promise not to take up firearms and fight about it. 83 people already have left as of friday and many more are expected to evacuate the area. The government will provide the necessary arrangements for these evacuees.

I think this needed to happen a long time ago, but at least it's happening.

Syria Update. By Nash F.

More of the Rebel bases in Syria have been bombed again and more innocent civilians. More diplomatic discussion have been held but the "Geneva II" talks are leading to a new solution.
In the Geneva conventions, a series of rules for war, originally said that chemical weapons are not allowed in war. But with the recent protest and rebel actions a solution needs to arrive soon for this conflict to be resolved. I personally believe that this should be resolved in a more peaceful way amongst any new modification that might be added to the conventions.

Bibliography:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-24628442

Two blasts rock in Cairo by Julia F

At least three police officers were injured in twin blasts in Cairo Friday, Egyptian state media reported.The explosions took place on a bridge in the Egyptian capital and targeted a police check point, according to state media.

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/07/world/africa/egypt-blasts/index.html?c=africa

Muslim Population forced to flee- Andrew Tunell

In The Central African Republic religious based violence has recently become very common, after a government coup. The majority of this country is Christian and have been fighting with the muslim population there. Already thousands of muslims have fled and the rest are soon predicted to leave. This would cause many economic problems for The Central African Republic because Muslims in the county control the livestock market and other businesses.
I think this is a very serious problem. First I think the violent attacks against the muslim population are awful, people have been seen burning in the streets and are being attacked for doing nothing but being a certain religion. I think the christian population needs to fix their problems, so these awful attacks won't keep happening and so their economy won't crash.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-26109987

Heavy snow hits Iran by Becca Hodge

Recent snow storms have hit Iran causing many people to get stuck in their houses and villages cut off. Around 3,800 people have been moved to emergency shelters. It has been reported that 79 people have been taking into the hospital for weather related injuries.

Hopefully the snow will melt and the people who are stuck get help. If its anything like Texas, the snow will melt in a few hours or so. Except its nothing like Texas and they might be stuck for a while.

Source

Africa's Stereotypes Addressed by Kera mickus

So, looking for current events,  I came across a rather unusual thing (at least in my point of view) about stereotypes and such about continents and "countries". Just being honest, I, myself, do often mistake Africa as a country sometimes, and I know that many fellow Americans do the same. I found a report on a organization of Africans and African Americans who, in their frustration of stereotypically being from a country "filled with diseases" and in "dire needs of help from Americans", decided to raise a campaign of awareness. Not Susan G. Komen awareness, but a fact/myth, hear the truth about Africa kind of awareness. I actually loved the idea of this, and it turns out that most of my conceptualizations of Africa were actually false. An example: "Do you speak African?" Or, "What is Africa's flag?". Not only does does Africa have more than 50 countries (meaning more than 50 flags), it has over 2000 languages, and all uniquely different. In the campaign each student of the African Students Association of New York's Ithaca College  took a picture and wrote a quote over it, each addressing an offensively stereotypical thought outsiders had.
Report by Teo Kermeliotis, of CNN
http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/07/world/africa/africa-is-not-a-country-campaign/index.html?hpt=wo_t2

Killer croc killed in Zambia by Josie

Summary: Zambia Wildlife Authority rangers have killed a man eating crocodile after it reportedly killed up to a dozen people. The villagers do not believe the rangers killed the right animal. Many villagers who wish to remain unnamed believe the man eating croc is actually what they call "icibokolo", and is going to continue killing. An "icibokolo" is a human that can change into an animal. Ms Muliyunda, a ZAWA spokesperson, disagrees. She said perpetuating such myths among Zambia's people would cause stigma, and villagers may single out suspects that they believe to be icibokolo, discriminating against them.
         Analysis: This is kind of ridiculous. If there are no more killings happening, why can't they just believe it was the right crocodile? It's a shame that they have to make up a story and point fingers at people because they are so afraid. It's sort of like making up myths to get your kid to stay out of trouble or away from danger, when really they should be teaching them not to go in areas the crocodile has its habitat.

police found the serial rapist??

Police in Irving found a man that might be connected to the serial rape cases. He was suspected to be accused of three rape cases, one at gunpoint. I don't know about you, but i really hope that this is the man they're looking for, because if it's not, the criminal is still at large. I think that they got him to tell you the truth. I really do. Cameron Ordinario

but I'm married to god!?! by polly hynds-riddle

Two Tennessee nuns hiked a long distance up to a nuclear plant, broke in, posted protest signs, and committed vandalism on their property. the two women were convicted and sentenced to time in prison.

i think this is strange to think about because of the way we perceive nuns (holy and what not) so therefore not doing anything bad and certainly not gong to jail! 

source:

http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/18/justice/tennessee-nun-sentenced/

J.K. Rowling says she Hermione and Ron should not have ended up together by Eleanor E-W

In a recent article J.K. Rowling said that she thought that Hermione should have ended up with Harry instead of Ron, and that she only put them together because that is the way she had planned it. She also said Ron and Hermione would have had marital issues and that he never would have been able to give her what she needed. She also talks about how she had considered killing Ron.

Wow! This is kind of a shock, I'm not a huge fan of the books but it will definetely change how I read them. It's weird to think that an author does not actually think her characters should have ended up together. It's definetely interesting.

source: http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/02/showbiz/rowling-hermione-ron-revelation/index.html?hpt=us_c2

Success in Israeli Wetland Conservation - by Frances Garnett

The Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA) is saying that they are on the right track and see changes and hope for the future of the conservation and rehabilitation of Israel’s wetlands, especially Einot Tzukim, saline wetlands just north of the Dead Sea, since destructive human activity, spring water trickling away from the reserve, and the drying of natural streams have caused deterioration there. The INPA and the Agricultural Ministry have been setting up 0.4 – 0.6 hectare pools (two out of three of which have already been completed) in the area to help protect and keep alive species of native fish. So far, the populations of Blue and Dead Sea Killifish have accumulated to tens of thousands of fish, and the area’s tilapia population has been moved into the second pool. On Friday, the pools will be inaugurated to celebrate World Wetlands Day, and several events will be held over the weekend to celebrate the nation’s wetlands.

I knew a bit about environmental issues in Southwest Asia before I read the article, like increasing desertification, so I was glad to see such a positive article, especially about a region that is mainly filled up by desert. Because the article at the end listed times and locations for events, it made me think that the reason it was written was to influence its audience to go and participate in some of these activities, though I think that it’s a wonderful idea! The article continually stressed how the attitudes towards conservation have changed, now providing more optimism regarding the future, which is what I think we should take away from this: our environment needs our help, and this shows us that a change of attitudes and really committing can actually achieve something.

Source: http://www.jpost.com/Enviro-Tech/INPA-to-celebrate-Israels-wetlands-this-weekend-in-honor-of-intl-day-339926

Boys going into war in Sudan: Reagan Leslie

A boy named Jacob Atem's parents died of war for freedom and independence when he was young. Later in life, he realized him and the other orphaned children (or also known the "Lost Boys"," were traveling thousands of miles across Sudan. Two years ago, Jacob returned to the new and improved nation of Sudan, where they opened a clinic of where he was born. The problem was, the country suffered another conflict and Jacob, (28 years old now), was apart of some deadly clashes himself. He has had to hide from the rebels going after him, he watched as the American aircraft came to rescue him and took him to a United Nations compound. Atem believes that he got lucky because he makes it onto a humanitarian flight and got away from the massive fighting. I really give props to Jacob and the Lost Boys because they showed that nothing is impossible as long as you work for it. This is a life motto not only in a life-death situation, but throughout your whole life.

Saudi Arabian man ordered to lose weight by the king by Samantha Stromness

A man in his late teens weighed over 1350 and had not left his bed in three years. The king as of last year ordered him to be hospitalized after being cut out of his own home and fork lifted to the hospital. This man in the year since has lost 700+ pounds and is steadily getting better.

I find this situation a bit odd. I think it's really great that this boy has lost so much weight and is starting to 'turn things around'. However i do find it a bit bizarre why this would be ordered by the king. I understand that people in this region don't have a whole lot of freedom, but i don't understand what would make a king care so much about some overweight man in a village.

 http://edition.cnn.com/2014/02/03/world/meast/saudi-arabia-obesity/index.html?hpt=imi_c2

Snow Hits Right After the Super Bowl BY TREVOR WALKER

     As the NFL was clearing out of MetLife Stadium following another Super Bowl, snow started to hit the region. We missed our first Snow Bowl by a matter of hours. Of course, you could make the joke that the Seattle Seahawks' blizzard snowed under the Denver Broncos in XLVIII, but the real white stuff didn't make its way to East Rutherford, N.J. until the early-morning hours of Monday, Feb. 3 — once nearly everyone cleared out of the stadium.

     We can't say definitely which team this would have favored, of course, but it's hard to imagine that Peyton Manning and the Broncos would have done much better with a slower track out there. Perhaps they were spared further embarrassment and anger. The chances of a cold-weather, outdoor Super Bowl happening again elsewhere (and perhaps eventually back in New York/New Jersey) appear very high, even if commissioner Roger Goodell wouldn't say definitively the chances of that. But for as nice as the weather was for Sunday's game, just know that creeping around the corner was a few inches of snow that could have changed the outcome. It's very good that the snow waited around just waiting to raid all the left-over hotdogs that the Broncos fans didn't feel like eating! :)

Go Seahawks!!!

Moscow school shooting by Jackson Daughety

Summary: A Moscow School student took 20 other students hostage during class. He entered the school, threatened the security guard with a gun, Shot a teacher on the way to a classroom. The teacher was killed along with one police officer. The suspect was caught. His father was the one that was able to talk to him on the phone and then in person in order to talk him out of killing anyone else or doing anything more drastic. It is said that he had a grudge against a teacher and that was the motivation for this attack. Analysis: These Attacks just seem to happen every day now. At least this one had a purpose. Crimes with a purpose can at least be prevented. Random crimes are the really dangerous ones. I am glad the father was able to react and talk to his son. He probably saved a few lives. It seems like someone should have been paying enough attention to this kid to see something like this coming. http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/bestoftv/2014/01/31/5-things-1-31-newday.cnn.html

Nelson Mandlea leaves millions in will: JULIA WOLTJEN

SUMMARY: In the reading of Nelson Mandela's will it showed that he left $4.1 million to family, fellow workers, and schools. His 3rd wife will decide her share and then the rest will be split between the rest.

ANALYSIS: This truly shows how amazing he was, he left his life's earnings to help others around him....! He will continue to keep giving to the world for ages even after he is gone. His legacy will be that he was a man who gave everything to the people around him. He made and will make this world a better place. Thank you Nelson Mandela!

http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/03/world/africa/mandela-will/index.html